Carolyn Crow is a life-long resident of Gurdon where she has raised a family and worked in education while devoting her
life to God, her church, her family and her friends.

Jackie Calhoun is a a resident of Arkadelphia where he takes a downhome view of life and Christianity.

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By Carolyn Crow

Feb. 8, 2013
12:01 a.m.

The sun was nowhere in sight on this cold wintry day, while the heavy raindrops continuously poured from the dark clouds. Parking my vehicle at the end of the driveway, I hurriedly ran to the mailbox to receive my mail. This however was my daily routine, but this day turned out to be somewhat different. Running back to my vehicle as fast as I could, I sadly discovered that my keys were locked inside with the motor running. Unfortunately, my husband was nowhere in sight and my cell phone was locked inside. “Oh my, what do I do now?” However, I charged down the long driveway while the cold rain beat upon my head. Then out of nowhere my neighbor’s dog paid me a visit as he chased me about 25 yards before I was able to dash onto my front porch. Regrettably, I was not enjoying the moment. Some 20 minutes later my husband arrived and he took me back to the end of the driveway to pick up my vehicle. It was now determined that the driver’s door was the only door locked. Can you imagine how I felt? Yep, you are right, stupid! Through all of this I learned a very valuable lesson. “Never give up too soon.” I could have saved myself a lot of time and pain, had I checked the other doors. Often time God opens doors for us, but when one door closes, fear causes us to give up the struggle. Certain instances in the life of Elijah encourage us to persevere. God provided him with bread and meat through ravens. He also provided him with water from the brook, but then some time later the brook dried up. Nevertheless God had another open door; Elijah was to go at once to Zarephath where God had commanded a widow to provide for him. My dear friend, when faced with a locked door, don’t let the enemy rob you of what God has for you. The enemy is a deceiver and he makes you think it’s all over. In many cases we give in without realizing that we’re just minutes away from victory. Keep persevering and always be reminded of His promise in Revelations 3:8. “I know all the things you do, and I have opened a door for you that no one can close.”